(Reflection on Mary
Visitation)
Today we recall and celebrate
Mary’s visitation to Elizabeth. This visit is more than a momentary historical encounter.
It has become a sort of ‘showcasing’ of Mary’s maternal care; an exhibition of
her character as the lowly handmaid, who, in total submission to God, responds
promptly to the will of God. The beauty and joy of this encounter is ever alive
every 31st of May as we recall her enduring prophecy: “All
generations shall call me blessed” (Lk 1:48).
The Greeting
“In those days Mary arose and
went with haste into the hill country, to a city of Judah, and she entered the
house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth” (Lk 1:39). This was an energy-packed
visit: running the distance, climbing the hills! We could imagine her gasping
but not exhausted because her supply of strength cannot run dry! Her greetings
broke the silence and loneliness of the elderly couple’s home. This was no
common greeting! While Mary greeted as the lowly handmaid, Elizabeth heard the
voice of the Mother of God; Baby John the Baptist leapt for joy! And the Holy
Spirit took charge of Elizabeth as she prophesied: “Blessed are you among
women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted me, that
the Mother of my Lord should come to me?”
Thus, Elizabeth joyfully welcomed
Mary with sublime praises. The warmth of their embrace has never cooled...It is
still being felt as Mary’s Motherly arm embraces us today.
Mary’s Response
“And Mary said, ‘My soul
magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour...” In her humble
nature, She did not claim the praises to herself. Instead, she transferred all
praises to God. Self admiration is a trap only a few can escape. From the
Magnificat, it is obvious that her heart was fully set on God, His mighty deeds,
His Holiness and generous love. She meditated on God’s for the starving poor
and the fulfilment of God’s covenant with Abraham and hid descendants forever.
Mary’s response was not centred
on herself or Elizabeth, but on God and His mighty deeds. This joyful outburst
shows indeed that Mary is Mother of God!
Mary Stayed with Her
“Mary stayed with her for about
three months and then went home” (Lk 1:56). We recall that Angel told her that
Elizabeth was in her 6th month (Lk 1:36). This implies that Mary
stayed with her till she gave birth. The habitual visitation of Mary, the
Mother of my Lord, is prompt but never brief! The grace of God cannot come
late! So She who is full of grace intervenes promptly, and supplies the grace
in full; she intercedes till success is assured. Mary will not leave until our
salvation is achieved.
Fr
Jude Chinwenwa Nwachukwu, C.Ss.R
Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church,
Abule-Oshun,
Lagos.
Friday
May 31st, 2019.
Feast
of Visitation of Mary.
